US sees no threat from Türkiye's return to F-35 programme

The Greek Kathimerini newspaper has announced that the US Department of Defence does not view Türkiye's involvement in the F-35 programme as a threat to the balance of power in the Aegean Sea.

This stance marks a shift from previous US positions, where Washington had supported Greece’s technological edge as a counterbalance to Türkiye's numerical superiority in the region, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.  

While the US had previously backed Greece's technological advantages, there is now a shift toward treating both Türkiye and Greece equally. The Pentagon is reportedly confident that Türkiye's return to the F-35 programme will not disturb the regional power balance.

Furthermore, following a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, Israel appears to have moved away from expectations of a substantial reduction in US arms sales to Ankara. This development indicates a shift in the broader dynamics of US defence relationships in the region. The report also highlights that Washington has noted the alignment between Greece and Israel on many regional issues, particularly regarding Türkiye’s positions. 

The close relationship between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and President Trump is also acknowledged in the article, further shaping US policy on this matter. The article concludes with speculation that Greece’s Ministry of Defence will increase its efforts to strengthen ties with the US F-35 manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, in light of the changing dynamics surrounding the programme.

By Naila Huseynova